Ondo State government on Monday distributed maize to livestock farmers to ease the challenge of livestock feed and boost food production.

Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa said at the distribution centre in Akure, Ondo’s capital, that the aim was to mitigate the country’s escalating food prices.

Mr Aiyedatiwa said the distribution was the first of many activities and initiatives planned to make the state zero-tolerant of food insecurity.

“Food security, as we are all aware, is not merely about having enough food to eat but ensuring that all individuals have access to safe, nutritious and sufficient food at all times.

“Unfortunately, our people still struggle with hunger and malnutrition. This is unacceptable in a country endowed with fertile land and abundant natural resources.

“As a government, we must check this ugly trend and make sure that food is not only available but affordable to the general populace,” he said.

He announced that the state government would distribute 40 trailers of maize to poultry, fish, and piggery farmers for now, with plans to distribute various food commodities further in the future.

Mr Aiyedatiwa used the opportunity to recount some of his achievements in the agricultural sector, including the Red Gold Project, Greenhouse installations for vegetable production, and the establishment of cattle and pig villages.

He reiterated the need to empower smallholder farmers, particularly women and youths, through training, capacity building, and access to credit.

The governor also appreciated the support of President Bola Tinubu’s administration for approving the distribution of grains and other commodities to the state.

He called for fair pricing practices among farmers, off-takers, and traders, urging them to avoid exploitative tendencies.

Earlier, the chairman of the Committee on Agriculture and Food Security, Rotimi Akinsola, thanked the governor for his commitment to the welfare of the people.

(NAN)